Eric Chelle Reacts After Draw vs South Africa Shatters Super Eagles’ World Cup Hopes
- Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shared his thoughts after a disappointing result in Bloemfontein
- Nigeria played 1-1 against Bafana Bafana, a result which dealt a huge blow to their World Cup hopes
- The result leaves Nigeria hoping for a miracle in the final two matches during the October break
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shared his thoughts after the 1-1 draw against South Africa dealt a huge blow to Nigeria's chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria went into the match at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, knowing victory was a must, but eventually settled for a point apiece with their hosts.
Source: Getty Images
Captain William Troost-Ekong, who returned to the starting lineup, inadvertently converted Teboho Mokoena's cross into his own net for the opening goal for Bafana Bafana.
Fulham defender, who started the match at left-back, powered in a header on the stroke of halftime from Bright Osayi-Samuel’s cross to level the scores.
The Birmingham City defender entered the fray in the 10th minute after Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina pulled his hamstrings and couldn't continue.
Nigeria, which desperately needed a goal in the second half, did not test South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams in the second half, putting many chances astray.
Eric Chelle reacts to draw against South Africa
Head coach Eric Chelle, speaking at his post-match conference, admitted that a draw against South Africa is a good result, but for what Nigeria needed from the match, it was disappointing.
“To draw with South Africa in South Africa is a good result, but we wanted to win, so we’re a bit disappointed tonight,” he told reporters.
The Franco-Malian added that his players remain motivated for the remaining two games against Lesotho and Benin Republic in October, even though it may not be enough to see them through.
“My players are professionals, and I know they will still want to win the remaining two games. A lot can happen over the next one month,” he added.
“But before that, we will have to analyse our performance tonight, which will not be easy.”
Source: Getty Images
As noted by CAF Online, the draw maintains the six-point gap between Nigeria and South Africa as Bafana Bafana moves closer to qualifying for the World Cup.
All hope is not lost for Nigeria as they can still mathematically overtake South Africa to finish in first place and clinch the automatic ticket in Group C.
As noted by Goal, the playoff spot is not certain for Nigeria, as they currently sit eighth on the table of the best placed second teams with 11, and target 17 maximum points, lower than leaders Gabon.
Nigerians react to draw vs South Africa
Legit.ng reported that Nigerians reacted to the draw against South Africa, which makes it even more difficult for the Super Eagles to qualify for the World Cup.
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey scored the equaliser with his arm, which could have been ruled out if the video assistant referee had been in use.
Don't miss out! Join Legit.ng's Sports News channel on WhatsApp now!
Source: Legit.ng
